i know that i am supposed to live simply. i really want to live simply. But, i change my idea of "simple" every time i turn around. and i feel sick and my heart is sore every time i walk into my home. there is so much unnecessary crap. i really can't stand it anymore.

living simply is NOT owning 30 pairs of shoes, or having clothes stuffed in the back of the closet that you don't even wear. living simply isn't having two bookshelves full of books, especially when children all over the world have never touched a book!

i feel guilty and dirty for having so much...stuff.

the same way i feel when i drink out of a plastic water bottle. or watch the children sleeping in water filled cellar in Uganda.

Also, I am sick of just saying i will do these things.
i made a plan (that i must tell my parents first to achieve).

and here it is: this [four day] weekend i will buy a pair of TOM'S shoes, and get rid of all other shoes except running shoes, and sandals. i will clean out my clothes from my closet and dresser that i do not wear, do not need, or have too many of (this is a lot). i will give most of my books away (i need to keep some). Also, there is just a lot of other crap in my room that i need to give away or sell and give that profit away.

this isn't one of those "i will do it" things...as long as things go smoothly with my parents. i REALLY plan on doing this in two days.

now i am going to speak with my parents. yikes!